The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is often framed as a necessary step toward decarbonizing transportation. However, skeptics frequently raise an important question: What if all the electricity used to charge EVs came from coal-fired power plants? Would EVs still be better for the environment and energy efficiency? The answer, surprisingly, is yes. Even in a worst-case scenario where coal dominates the energy mix, EVs remain significantly more efficient and less polluting than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Here's why.

The Efficiency Advantage of EVs

1. EV Efficiency vs. ICE Efficiency

   • EVs are over 85-90% efficient in converting electrical energy from the grid into motion, while ICE vehicles operate at only 15-20% efficiency in real-world conditions26.

   • This means that for every unit of energy consumed, EVs deliver far more usable power to the wheels compared to ICE vehicles.

2. Energy Losses in Coal Power Plants

   • Coal-fired power plants typically operate at 35-40% efficiency, with some modern plants reaching up to 50%2. While this may seem low, the combined efficiency of coal-powered electricity and an EV drivetrain still outperforms gasoline-powered cars.

   • Accounting for transmission losses (5-10%) and charging inefficiencies (10%), EVs powered by coal achieve a well-to-wheel efficiency of around 30-35%, which is still nearly double that of ICE vehicles.

3. Energy Density and Consumption

   • On average, EVs consume about 15 kWh/100 km, making them far more energy-efficient than gasoline cars that burn approximately 8 liters of fuel per 100 km, equivalent to around 80 kWh of energy.

Environmental Impact: Coal vs. Gasoline

1. Lower Carbon Emissions

   • Even when powered by coal, EVs produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than ICE vehicles due to their higher efficiency. For example, coal plants emit about 820 gCO₂/kWh, which translates to approximately 123 gCO₂/km for an average EV. In contrast, gasoline cars emit around 200-250 gCO₂/km.

2. Eliminating Local Air Pollution

   • Unlike ICE vehicles, which emit harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter directly into urban environments, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions. This improves air quality in cities regardless of how the electricity is generated.

3. Future-Proofing the Grid

   • While coal may dominate some grids today, the global energy mix is rapidly transitioning toward renewables like solar and wind. As grids decarbonize, the environmental benefits of EVs will only increase.

Why Replacing All Cars with EVs Is Still a Win

1. Efficiency Multiplier Effect

   • If all cars today were replaced with EVs, the total energy required for transportation would drop dramatically due to their superior efficiency. This would reduce overall demand on power plants, even if those plants are coal-based.

2. Scalability of Renewable Energy

   • Transitioning to an all-EV fleet creates opportunities to integrate renewable energy sources into the grid more effectively. Unlike ICE vehicles that are locked into fossil fuels, EVs can be powered by cleaner energy as it becomes available.

3. Reduced Fossil Fuel Dependence

   • Replacing gasoline and diesel with electricity reduces reliance on oil extraction, refining, and transportation—processes that are both energy-intensive and environmentally damaging.

Strategic Implications for Policymakers and Industry

1. Accelerate Grid Decarbonization

   • Governments must prioritize investments in renewable energy infrastructure to maximize the environmental benefits of widespread EV adoption.

2. Expand Charging Networks

   • Building accessible and efficient charging infrastructure will ensure that consumers can transition seamlessly to electric mobility.

3. Educate Consumers on Efficiency

   • Public awareness campaigns should highlight how even coal-powered EVs outperform ICE vehicles in terms of efficiency and emissions.

4. Encourage Energy Storage Solutions

   • Integrating battery storage systems into grids can help manage intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind, further reducing reliance on coal.

Even in a hypothetical scenario where all electricity for charging EVs comes from coal-fired power plants, replacing ICE vehicles with EVs would still result in significant efficiency gains and lower emissions overall. The inherent advantages of electric drivetrains make them a better choice for both consumers and the planet. As grids continue to decarbonize and renewable energy becomes more prevalent, the case for transitioning to electric mobility becomes even stronger. The future isn't just electric—it's efficient, sustainable, and transformative.